Neurons in the caudal pedunculopontine nucleus, an area of the brain that regulates motor coordination, switch neurotransmitters from acetylcholine to GABA as a result of exercise. The switch appears to provide feedback control that regulates motor coordination and skill learning. Read More
Prenatal exposure to THC makes dopamine neurons hyperactive and increases the sensitivity to the behavioral effects of the compound during pre-adolescence. This may increase the risk of developing schizophrenia later in life. However, treatment with pregnenolone, a drug under clinical trials for ASD, cannabis use disorder, and schizophrenia, appears to correct the brain abnormalities and behavioral problems associated with prenatal cannabis exposure. Read More
Researchers report the brain's reward network could play an influential role in evaluating the opportunity to gain new information, just as it does to evaluate rewards such as food or financial gain. Read More
A new study reports brain connectivity appears to be dictated by the spatial architecture of neurons, rather than the cell type-specific cues. Read More
Researchers are using a new brain imaging strategy to understand how to manipulate specific neural circuits in order to help motivate people. Read More
A new study explores why teens may be more vulnerable to addiction than adults. Read More
Study reveals a novel learning process orchestrated between the digestive system and brain that compels animals to seek out novel foods. Read More
A new study reveals a link between a vulnerability to depression and noradrenergic neurons. Read More
Researchers use a wireless electrical device to stimulate deep brain areas and provide relief for chronic pain. Read More
Estrogen level fluctuations appear to play a role in alcohol use disorder in women. Reducing the number of estrogen receptors in the ventral tegmental area decreased binge drinking behaviors in female mouse models. Read More
Researchers have identified a brain network that may control the diversion of attention to focus on potential threats. Dopamine, they report, is key to the process. Read More
Researchers examined the effects oxytocin and vasopressin had on perceptions of social dominance. Oxytocin increased perception of greater dominance. Neuroimaging revealed the findings were also reflected in changes in brain regions associated with social perception. Read More